The DWP has introduced a new update for older people
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed it is taking measures to “speed up and streamline the processing of new Attendance Allowance claims” as part of its broader Service Modernisation programme. Pensions Minister Torsten Bell stated that the goal is to clear 90 per cent of all new Attendance Allowance applications within 30 days.
Mr Bell noted that most claims are being processed within approximately three to four weeks, a process that has been “supported by increasing uptake of the new digital application route”.
The DWP Minister’s remarks were in response to a question posed by Labour MP Nadia Whittome, who asked ‘what assessment has been made of the potential impact of current waiting times on decisions on claims for Attendance Allowance’ particularly for claimants undergoing active cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, reports the Daily Record.
In a written reply to the Nottingham East MP, Mr Bell said: “The Department keeps Attendance Allowance processing times under review and recognises the importance of timely decisions for older people, including those undergoing significant medical treatment. Through our wider Service Modernisation programme, we have taken steps to speed up and streamline the processing of new Attendance Allowance claims.
“We are now working to a target of clearing 90 per cent of new claims within 30 days, and current performance shows that the majority of claims are being cleared within around 3-4 weeks, supported by increasing uptake of the new digital application route.”
He added: “For customers who are nearing the end of life, we operate a dedicated fast-track process under the Special Rules for End of Life, where claims are prioritised and typically cleared within eight days.
“The extension of the end-of-life definition from 6 months to 12 months ensures more people with advanced conditions can benefit from this expedited process.”
Latest DWP figures reveal that at the end of August 2025, over 1.7 million older people were receiving additional financial support through Attendance Allowance. Both benefits currently provide either £73.90 or £110.40 each week and as they are typically paid every four weeks, this totals either £295.60 or £441.60 per payment period. The weekly amount someone receives depends on the level of care they require.
The amount received depends on the level of support required, with the benefit designed to assist those of State Pension age with daily living costs, helping them maintain independence in their own homes for longer. It’s crucial to note there is no mobility component included with Attendance Allowance.
The benefit supports people with a disability, long-term illness and mental or physical health conditions.
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State Pension Rates 2026/27
Full New State Pension
- Weekly: £241.30 (from £230.25)
- Four-weekly pay period: £965.20
- Annual amount: £12,547
Full Basic State Pension
- Weekly: £184.90 (from £176.45)
- Four-weekly pay period: £739.60
- Annual amount: £9,614
Other State Pension rates
- Category B (lower) Basic State Pension – spouse or civil Partner’s insurance: £110.75 (from £105.70)
- Category C or D – non-contributory: £110.75 (from £105.70)
The new payment rates will start on April 6.
Who can claim?
You should apply for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night – even if you don’t currently receive that assistance.
This might include:
- Help with your personal care – for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
- Help to stay safe
You should also apply if you have difficulties with personal tasks, for instance if they take you considerable time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn’t exclusively for those with a physical disability or illness.
You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:
- a mental health condition
- learning difficulties
- a sensory condition – if you are deaf or visually impaired
What are the Attendance Allowance payment rates?
Claimants could receive either £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate) weekly.
You can spend the money however you like and it could help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
This might include:
- paying for taxis
- helping towards bills
- paying for a cleaner or gardener
Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?
Yes. Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested so it doesn’t matter what other money you have coming in or how much you have in savings either – there’s no limit. it is also tax-free and you will be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won’t have money taken away from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, it won’t affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you’re still working and earning money.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
The other benefits you get might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include:
- Extra Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit Reduction
- Council Tax Reduction
How do I make a claim?
You will need to complete a long claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem daunting at first but help is available from Citizens Advice and Independent Age.
Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?
If you are thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away – you may be able to get more money.
Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?
You won’t be able to get Attendance Allowance if you already get PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to pay for your care. If you apply for Attendance Allowance while getting DLA, the DWP will usually reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the existing award ends as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful you can apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
Find out more about Attendance Allowance on the GOV.UK website here.
